The IHSA Student Advisory Committee (SAC) has traditionally conducted its Student Section Showdown each year from August to March as a chance for students a chance to show off their spirit and support at high school athletic events throughout the year.

With the pandemic impacting sports in 2020-21, the contest was modified to the Student Spirit Showdown, as the SAC challenged students to stand out in their communities while being safe and pandemic responsible. The goal of each submitted video was to promote positivity and service in their community by showing your school spirit, extending a helping hand during these trying times, or giving back to your school, team, or neighborhood.

The SAC recently met to review the submissions, crowning Salt Fork High School as the Class 1A/2A state champion and Carl Sandburg as the Class 3A/4A winner.

“This contest was a fun way to try and recognize all the positive things that are happening with our students and in our schools, despite the hardships of pandemic”, said IHSA Assistant Executive Director Beth Sauser. “Congratulations to Salt Fork and Sandburg for documenting their amazing efforts to win this contest, and kudos to all the students who are making positive contributions to their schools, communities, and teams!”

See the winning videos below:


Class 1A/2A Winner: SALT FORK HIGH SCHOOL


Class 3A/4A Winner: CARL SANDBURG HIGH SCHOOL